Search

By gently correcting somatic dysfunction in a child’s spine, both spinal cord tension and nerve irritation alleviates, and changes are observable in all aspects of life. The case study listed below demonstrates a common and interesting connection between body and brain (mind), specifically by influencing a somato-psychic response. Because the somato-psychic connection is innate, adults may potentially benefit as well .

Clinical Features: A female adolescent with recurring headaches and parasomnia (night terrors) presented for chiropractic care. The headaches and sleep disturbances had a negative affect on her academics, sports, and social life. Upon examination, she had abnormal postural findings indicating cervical, thoracic, and lumbar subluxations.

Intervention and Outcome: The patient was evaluated for postural abnormalities and palpatory muscle hypertonicity, segmental edema, and kinesiopathology during each visit. Postural abnormalities and associated vertebral subluxations were corrected using specific hands on adjusting techniques for a one month period. There was a reduction in headache symptoms and complete resolution of parasomnia (night terrors) following the start of treatment.

Conclusion: Sleep disturbances in children are common and often develop without explanation. To date, there are few interventions that help alleviate the negative affects of interrupted sleep on a child’s daily activities. Vertebral subluxation should be considered when a child is experiencing neuromusculoskeletal symptoms and sleep disturbances of otherwise unknown origin. More research is warranted to explore the benefits of chiropractic care in cases of parasomnia and sleep disturbances.